History

Brief History Necessary Angel is considered one of English Canada’s most vital original creation and touring organizations. The company has a history of innovation and risk taking and engages theatre artists from a variety of disciplines in the creation of new work. An influential and original presence on the national and international theatre scene for nearly 40 years, we have produced more than 60 productions, including 30 world premieres and 11 North American premieres. Work created by Necessary Angel has been nominated for and has won Governor General’s Awards for Drama, Chalmers Awards for Outstanding New Play, and numerous Dora Mavor Moore Awards.

We have been privileged to work with outstanding literary figures such as Michael Ondaatje and Timothy Findley. A catalyst for groundbreaking original work, Necessary Angel has collaborated with some of Canada’s most acclaimed theatre artists: Jordan Tannahill, Dairine Ni Mheadra, Daniel MacIvor, Saidah Baba Talibah, John Mighton, Colleen Murphy, Teresa Pryzbylsky, Jason Sherman, Colleen Wagner, David Young, Marie-Josee Chartier and Jonathon Young.

Necesssary Angel was founded by Richard Rose in 1978. Daniel Brooks lead as artistic director from 2008 - 2012 and in 2013 Jennifer Tarver took the helm of the company.